McClaren sets target of winning silverware

Damian Spellman
– 11 June 2015 03:00 AM

New Newcastle head coach Steve McClaren has been charged with the task of trying to win a trophy after finally giving the club the answer they wanted.

The Magpies ended a six-month pursuit of the former England manager last night when they announced his appointment as Alan Pardew's replacement on a three-year deal which could eventually be extended to eight.

He took up the post having accepted the challenge of securing a top-eight Premier League finish and, perhaps more significantly in view of the club's recent policy of treating the domestic cup competitions as an inconvenience, to attempt to bring a first trophy to St James' Park in 46 years.

McClaren, who has also been appointed to the club's board of directors, said: "I am privileged to be appointed head coach of Newcastle United FC. This is a big club with a wonderful heritage.

"The supporters are some of the most loyal, passionate and devoted in the world. Despite everything, they maintain their faith. We owe it to them to do everything we can to reward them with success."

"There's a lot of work to do, but the club has made it clear about wanting success, and I would not have come here if I didn't believe they were serious," he added.

McClaren will join managing director Lee Charnley, chief scout Graham Carr and club ambassador Bob Moncur - the last captain to lift a trophy in 1969 - on the board, with Ashley and finance director John Irving, who is to leave the club, stepping down.